Nice Girls (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Blending elements of action and comedy, “Nice Girls” (2024) aims to be a female-led, buddy-cop movie that shakes up the genre with a fresh twist. Unfortunately, despite its intriguing premise and star-studded cast, the film struggles to find its footing, leading to a viewing experience that’s more tedious than thrilling.
Plot Overview: A Disappointing Start
“Nice Girls” opens with Leo, a no-nonsense police officer portrayed by Alice Taglioni, racing through the scenic streets of Nice, France. She’s in hot pursuit of answers about her brother Ludo, who has mysteriously gone missing. When Ludo is found dead, Leo is devastated but determined to uncover the truth behind his death. Her investigation leads her to an unexpected partner, Mélanie, a German cop played by Stéfi Celma, who brings a different set of skills and a contrasting personality to the table.
The movie sets itself up as a mix of high-stakes action and light-hearted comedy, with the two female leads navigating the male-dominated world of law enforcement while unraveling a conspiracy that’s much larger than either of them anticipated. However, the film’s attempt to balance these elements often falls flat, leaving viewers confused about what it’s trying to achieve.
A Clash of Tones: Comedy or Action?
From the outset, “Nice Girls” seems unsure of its identity. The movie tries to blend the slick, heist-like action of “Ocean’s 8” with the quirky, odd-couple dynamic of “The Heat,” but it never fully commits to either tone. The action scenes are decent, but they lack the adrenaline-pumping excitement needed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Similarly, the comedic moments are scattered and inconsistent, often relying on cultural stereotypes that don’t translate well to an international audience.
One of the film’s biggest shortcomings is its pacing. The story unfolds at a sluggish tempo, drawing out scenes that feel intentionally opaque. The narrative moves forward with a sense of hesitancy, and for much of the first half, it’s difficult to grasp where the plot is heading or what the characters’ motivations are. This slower pace, combined with the film’s refusal to spell things out clearly, creates a sense of disorientation for the viewer.
Character Dynamics: A Missed Opportunity
The dynamic between Leo and Mélanie is supposed to be the heart of the film, but their relationship never quite clicks. Leo is a hardened cop, emotionally scarred by her brother’s death, and resistant to Mélanie’s attempts at camaraderie. Mélanie, in contrast, is polished, methodical, and seemingly out of place in the gritty world of French policing.
Their differences are played up for comedic effect, but the jokes often fall flat, leaving the audience more frustrated than entertained. The film tries to build a “BFF” vibe between the two, but it feels forced, with the script repeating the same beats over and over again without ever achieving a genuine connection between the characters.
A Convoluted Plot: Too Much Going On
As the investigation progresses, the plot becomes increasingly convoluted. What starts as a simple murder mystery quickly spirals into a complex web of conspiracies involving climate change, corporate greed, and international espionage. The film’s attempt to tackle such heavy themes feels out of place in a story that’s supposed to be a lighthearted action-comedy. By the time the final act rolls around, the narrative is so bogged down in unnecessary twists and turns that it’s hard to care about the outcome.
The film’s climax, which should have been a high-energy showdown, instead feels like a letdown. The big reveal of the villain is underwhelming, and the resolution of the main plot points is unsatisfying. Rather than leaving the audience on a high note, “Nice Girls” fizzles out, leaving viewers questioning what they just watched.
Where to Watch “Nice Girls” Online
For those curious to check out “Nice Girls” despite its flaws, the movie is available on several streaming platforms. Here’s where you can watch it:
- Netflix: As of now, “Nice Girls” is available for streaming on Netflix, making it easily accessible to subscribers in the United States.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, offering both HD and 4K viewing options.
- Google Play: Available for rent or purchase, you can watch “Nice Girls” on Google Play across various devices.
- Apple TV: The movie is also available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, compatible with Apple devices and smart TVs via the Apple TV app.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity
In the end, “Nice Girls” is a film that had potential but ultimately fails to deliver. The premise of a female-led buddy-cop action-comedy is intriguing, and the setting in the picturesque city of Nice, France, adds a unique flair. However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The film’s inability to find a consistent tone, coupled with a convoluted plot and lackluster character dynamics, makes it more of a chore to watch than the fun, escapist experience it could have been.
For viewers looking for a light-hearted action-comedy, there are better options out there. But if you’re curious about what “Nice Girls” has to offer, it’s readily available on popular streaming platforms. Just don’t go in expecting anything groundbreaking, and you might find some moments of entertainment amidst the chaos.
